Krouse is by FAR the best teacher for music theory. None of the ethnomusicology classes could explain theory as well as him both in academic and practical use. HIGHLY recommend him; do NOT take theory with ethnomusicologists. Just focus on learning from Krouse, you'll get an A.

Ian Krouse is the best professor I have had so far at UCLA. I have taken theory courses from 5 different professors in both the Music and Ethnomusicology departments. His effectiveness at communicating is compelling, and he is very rational and at the same time passionate about music. It is wise to say in class when something isn't understood because otherwise he will move on assuming that everyone understands. In my opinion, the people that found his class difficult didn't ask enough questions --he would have helped make it easy for sure.